Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout offers spectacular views of the beautiful surrounding peaks and valleys, and is accessible by hikers, mountain bikers and off-road vehicle riders in the summer, and skiers, snowmobilers and snowshoers in the winter. It provides basic amenities such as bunk beds, a wood stove, and a propane stove for cooking, as well as a campfire ring. Grizzly bears and a wide variety of birds are some of the wildlife that can be spotted in the area.
Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout sits on the apex of Garnet Mountain, at an elevation of 8,245 feet. The lookout provides a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Highlights include the Spanish Peaks to the west, the Gallatin Range to the south, the Hyalite Ridge to the east and the Gallatin River Valley to the north.
The structure can be accessed by hiking, horseback or mountain bike on the Garnet Mountain Lookout Trail in the summer. The 4.5-mile trail gains 2,800 feet along its path. Motorcycles and ATVs can access the lookout via the Rat Lake Trail from June 16 through December 1. During winter months, guests must plan on skiing, snowmobiling or snowshoeing up to 10 miles.
Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Set alerts at more campgrounds to increase your odds of getting a place to stay! Below is a list of the closest campgrounds supported on Campflare. Or, view all campgrounds in Custer Gallatin National Forest.
Nearby Campgrounds | Distance | Notification Rate |
Spire Rock
Custer Gallatin National Forest
|
1.0mi | 62% |
Greek Creek
Custer Gallatin National Forest
|
3.4mi | 89% |
Swan Creek
Custer Gallatin National Forest
|
4.2mi | 70% |
Moose Creek Flat
Custer Gallatin National Forest
|
5.1mi | 82% |
Moose Creek Group Site
Custer Gallatin National Forest
|
5.5mi | — |
Little Bear Cabin
Custer Gallatin National Forest
|
5.6mi | 82% |